Wildlife experts will tell you the elephant's temper (unless provoked) is pretty low-key. This is where many people derive special symbolism. People who gravitate to elephant tattoos are often extremely powerful and can easily dominate - yet they prefer to keep peace and keep things calm. 'Gentle Giants' they could be described - just like elephants.

Elephants are extremely protective of their young and members of their herd.

The elephant is sacred to Buddha. Legend indicates before Mahaprajapati Gautami's incarnation as the Buddha, he developed in the womb in the form of a white elephant. The white elephant is a pristine symbol of Buddhism to this day.

Ganesha, a well-known Hindu deity has the head of an elephant. Ganesha is thought to bring luck, and move obstacles out of the way for the pure of heart and intent. A Ganesha tattoo often commemorates the god, and serves as a reminder that all hindrances are removed in faith and purity of intent. Ganesha, is also a patron deity of art, science and as his elephant qualities imply, he is considered a god of great wisdom and discernment.

In regions of Tibet the elephant is associated with creation. More specifically, ancient text depict an elephant holding up entire universe. When the elephant is seen in ancient architecture holding up vast structures, carved in pillars and foundational stonework, this is symbolic of the stabilizing presence of the elephant and the legend of the elephant bearing the weight of the world - keeping the world on in place. We also see this stabilizing symbolism of the elephant in India.

Aristotle claimed the elephant abstained from sex while his mate was pregnant - a whole two years. This lead to symbolism of chastity, patience, consideration and exhibiting thoughtful devotion in a relationship.

Pliny, a Roman philosopher of the natural world had dealings with elephants while he served in the Roman Empire Army. He said the elephant was every bit a sacred animal and symbolized renewal. Pliny wrote that when elephants bathed in the rivers at night, this was symbolic of purifying itself in the new moon.

Roman perspectives also observed the elephant to be legendary for long lives - so they deemed the creature to be symbolic of immortality, longevity and living in harmony with divinity and nature.

Alchemically, the elephant is attuned with Mercury, and thus shares symbolism of high intellect, communication, commerce and shrewd discernment.